I would probably start with a rod and maybe a reel, a hook and sinker would be helpful as well. Oh, I almost forgot, if one threads a worm onto the hook the probability of a fish taking the the bait rises exponetialy. The next thing i would suggest is an alarm clock, to help you get up on time.
As I am not familiar with the ponds that you go to, this is he best advice I can give right now.